Misty Evans

Reiki Level 1 Initiate Course Lesson 2 – Dr. Usui Sensi’s Principles and How to Integrate Them

Dr. Mikao Usui, the founder of Reiki, established five fundamental principles that guide practitioners in cultivating a balanced, mindful, and compassionate life.

These principles offer a framework for reducing stress, increasing well-being, and deepening spiritual awareness.

Just for today, I will not worry

Just for today, I will not be angry

Just for today, I will do my work honestly

Just for today, I will give thanks for my many blessings

Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing

 

Let’s explore each principle and how you can apply it in your everyday life.

Just for today, I will not worry

Worry is one of the most pervasive sources of stress in our modern world. It drains our energy and distracts us from the present moment. Reiki teaches us that worry does not change the future—it only depletes our strength to face it.

How to incorporate it:

Morning intention: Begin each day by reminding yourself to let go of worry. Acknowledge any concerns, then release them with the thought, “Just for today, I will not worry.”

Mindfulness practice: Whenever you catch yourself worrying, pause and take a deep breath. Refocus your mind on what is within your control and let go of what isn’t. This simple act of awareness helps you stay grounded in the present moment.

Gratitude list: End your day by listing three things you are grateful for. This shifts your focus from worries to positive aspects of your life, reinforcing a mindset of abundance rather than lack.

 

Just for today, I will not be angry

Anger can cloud our judgment, harm relationships, and leave us feeling out of control. Reiki invites us to release anger in favor of inner peace and compassion. When we let go of anger, we free ourselves from its negative grip on our energy.

How to incorporate it:

Pause and breathe: When anger arises, don’t react immediately. Instead, take a few slow, deep breaths to center yourself. This moment of mindfulness creates space between the emotion and your response, allowing you to act calmly.

Forgiveness practice: Each evening, reflect on any frustrations or grievances from the day. Consciously release them through forgiveness—whether it’s forgiving yourself, others, or circumstances. This clears your emotional energy before bedtime.

Channeling energy: If you’re feeling particularly angry or stressed, use that energy constructively. Engage in a physical activity, such as walking, yoga, or even cleaning, to release pent-up energy in a healthy way.

 

Just for today, I will do my work honestly

Honesty in your work and actions creates integrity and peace of mind. This principle encourages us to engage with life sincerely, whether it’s through our careers, personal responsibilities, or interactions with others. By doing your work honestly, you contribute to your own well-being and the collective good.

How to incorporate it:

Set realistic goals: At the start of your workday, set clear, achievable goals. Approach your work with a sense of dedication and care, knowing that you are doing your best in every situation.

Embrace authenticity: Be true to yourself in all that you do. Whether you’re making decisions at work, having conversations with loved ones, or interacting with strangers, bring your authentic self forward, unafraid to speak your truth with kindness.

Mindful work: Practice mindfulness during work. Focus on one task at a time, and avoid rushing. This helps create a sense of flow and ensures that your energy is directed with intention.

 

Just for today, I will give thanks for my many blessings

Gratitude is a powerful tool for cultivating a positive mindset. When we focus on what we are grateful for, we draw more positive energy into our lives. This principle helps us shift from a mindset of scarcity or complaint to one of abundance and joy.

How to incorporate it:

Morning gratitude practice: Start each day by identifying one thing you are grateful for. It could be something simple, like a beautiful sunrise or a restful night’s sleep. Allow this gratitude to set the tone for your day.

Gratitude journal: Keep a small notebook where you jot down things you are thankful for. This habit trains your mind to notice blessings, even on challenging days.

Acts of kindness: Show gratitude by giving back. Small acts of kindness, like offering a compliment or helping someone in need, spread positivity and reinforce the energy of thankfulness in your life.

 

Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing

Kindness is the foundation of Reiki practice. By showing kindness to yourself, others, and the environment, you promote peace, compassion, and harmony. This principle extends beyond human interactions—it reminds us to be kind to animals, plants, and all aspects of the natural world.

How to incorporate it:

Self-kindness: Begin by being kind to yourself. Take time to rest when needed, speak kindly to yourself, and honor your emotions. This self-compassion lays the foundation for how you treat others.

Practice empathy: When interacting with others, especially in difficult situations, try to understand their perspective. Respond with empathy, even when disagreements arise.

Connection with nature: Spend time in nature, being mindful of its beauty and balance. Whether it’s caring for plants, animals, or simply appreciating the natural world, showing kindness to nature strengthens your connection to the life force that flows through all things.

 

Daily Life Integration

To truly live by these principles, it’s helpful to start small and build daily habits. You don’t need to be perfect—simply bringing awareness to these guiding ideas will make a profound difference in your energy and outlook. Consider these practical ways to integrate Usui Sensi’s principles into your everyday life:

Morning Ritual: Recite the five principles to yourself each morning, setting an intention to live by them throughout the day.

Mindful Moments: Pause at different points in your day and reflect on how you are embodying these principles. If you find that worry, anger, or stress are creeping in, use these moments to return to a more centered, peaceful mindset.

End of Day Reflection: Before bed, take a moment to review your day. Acknowledge where you were able to align with the Reiki principles and where there’s room for improvement. Over time, this practice will help you develop greater mindfulness and consistency.

 

By weaving Usui Sensi’s principles into your daily routine, you will cultivate a more balanced, peaceful, and compassionate way of living, both for yourself and those around you.

As a bonus, I’ve included instructions on how to combine the Gassho Meditation with these principles to strengthen your Reiki practice.